If you see non-City crews working in a right-of-way along a street near you, or in backyard drainage and utility easements, it may be a contractor testing wooden electric utility poles as part of Xcel Energy's pole maintenance program. In 2026, Xcel Energy is expected to test more than 85,000 poles statewide.
Contract crews from Davey Resource Group and Osmose Utilities Services will hand-dig around pole bases, sound poles with a hammer, drill small inspection holes and check overhead equipment. All excavations will be restored and inspection holes plugged before crews leave. If repairs or replacements are needed, Xcel Energy or its contractors will return to coordinate and complete the work.
Customers with questions can call 1-800-895-4999. All Xcel Energy employees and contractors carry company identification and use clearly marked vehicles.
Understanding rights-of-way and easements
In most Bloomington residential areas, the City controls a 60-foot-wide right-of-way, dedicated to the City through a plat or easement that may include sidewalk. Land within the right-of-way can be used for streets, sidewalks, public and private utilities, etc. A typical street is 32-36 feet wide and is typically centered in the right-of-way. Approximately 10-15 feet of public right-of-way exists on either side of the street; therefore, the private property line is typically 10-15 feet behind the curb and gutter.
Utility or sidewalk easements may exist on private property adjacent to the right-of-way. Utility easements grant the rights for utilities such as gas, electric and communication lines to be located on private property within the easement area.
